Customizable storage container system

ABSTRACT

A series of interlocking or non-interlocking stackable containers have an identical size and shape. The containers may include transparent sides and a transparent cover. The cover may include a raised area. The bottom of container may include an inward recess sized to accept the raised area of the cover of a lower container. Each container may include an interchangeable faceplate that affixes to the transparent cover. The interchangeable faceplate may be used to accessorize the containers for visual recognition and cover an outer area of the cover, leaving an inner area of the cover exposed for viewing contents. The containers may similarly display contents at both a merchant and a customer location. A customer may purchase a container for home-use such as for interlocking or stacking with previously purchased containers of the same size. The containers may contain contents of the same type, such as jewelry, shoes, or other articles.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to stackable containers, and moreparticularly to customizable and interchangeable, stackable containers.

2. Description of the Related Art

Conventional jewelry boxes or jewelry armoires may be used to display,protect, and organize jewelry. These storage systems may have a lid thatopens to a compartment with divided organizers, and multiple drawerswith additional dividers. In some cases, hooks or other organizingfeatures may be offered to hang necklaces or earrings, or hold rings,watches and bracelets.

However, matching sets of jewelry may be separated (i.e., earrings maybe placed in one area; a necklace in another; and a bracelet inanother), making it difficult to find desired items. There may beinsufficient compartments for all of the items, non-matching jewelry maybe grouped together, and the pre-configured divisions within the jewelrybox may not be suited for the consumer's personal inventory. Somearmoires or jewelry boxes offer many rows of earring notches (or smallsets of holes) to attach earring sets and “arms” to attach bracelets andwatches for storage. This type of arrangement may be impractical andtime-consuming for a consumer to return his/her jewelry to after use.Further problems ensue when an owner travels and desires to transportvarious jewelry combinations. The owner may decide to either (1) foregotaking the jewelry altogether; (2) endanger the jewelry by dropping allof the desired items together in one pouch; or (3) place the jewelry,piece by piece, in a travel or compartmentalized container—travelcontainers taking time to pack and unpack each piece and not necessarilypreventing jewelry from entanglement or damage.

A known stackable tray system is provided by Neatnix® and available forjewelry storage. However, these stackable trays may have pre-configureddividers that are not adjustable, much like a jewelry box or jewelryarmoire that may have pre-set divisions. There may be other constraints,such as multiple, non-matching items may be grouped together; there maybe no ability to easily pack for travel; and the trays may be toppledover as one stacked tray is moved to get to another, which may presentrisk of loss if the jewelry tray is dropped or not carefully moved.Further, these trays may not stack well.

Retail jewelry stores or manufacturers may house fine jewelry offeringsin individual square or rectangular containers. These containers mayinclude a container with a velvet or cloth lining, anti-tarnishprotection, and the element of surprise. However, these jewelrycontainers may not be transparent or even translucent. As a result, oncethe jewelry has been delivered as a gift, the box may not beuser-friendly.

In recent years, jewelry pouches have become fashionable for use injewelry storage. These pouches may be manufactured from cloth, velvet,velour-texture, leather, and other materials. However, pouches may notoffer much protection or facilitate the ability of the owner to discernthe contents. Pouches may be even less effective when the owner'spersonal jewelry collection includes multiple same-color pouches from afavorite jewelry company. Some jewelry owners resort to using plasticsandwich baggies in order to contain their jewelry items inindividual-unit containers that provide airtight, visible storage fortheir precious items.

The craft industry provides storage solutions for beads, sewing andother crafts, such as scrap booking. These containers may bemanufactured from acrylic or low-cost material, and may not offer theability to personalize or create a more upscale look. These containersalso may not offer the consumer optional inserts that may allow forbetter care of jewelry being stored. The containers may be manufacturedfrom material that is not as impact resistant as desirable for finejewelry, and may not present an elegance associated with jewelry ortreasured items. Additionally, many of these container offerings may bevery tall and cylindrical, and not configured to work with pre-existingjewelry armoires or jewelry boxes.

The craft industry may also employ metal tin containers with clear tops.These containers may have a more elegant look than acrylic. However, thecontainer material may easily dent and the clear top may be made ofmaterial that is easily cut or otherwise breached.

Specific examples of traditional storage containers are disclosed byU.S. Pat. No. 5,699,925 (entitled “Interlocking Stackable ContainerStorage System”) and U.S. Pat. No. 5,799,792 (entitled “Nestable andStackable Storage Unit”). More recent conventional storage containersare disclosed by U.S. Pub. No. 2005/0082176 (entitled “Jewelry Box”),U.S. Pub. No. 2008/0000795 (entitled “Stackable Containers”), and U.S.Pat. No. 7,159,733 (entitled “Tamper Evident Container-LidCombination”).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present embodiments are directed to a customizable storage containersystem. The system may include a number of customizable andinterchangeable stackable containers. Each stackable container may beintended for use with other identical or substantially identicalstackable containers. Each stackable container may include a removablecover with a raised portion. Each stackable container may also include abottom having a recess portion with a substantially similar shape as theraised portion of the cover. During use, the raised portion of the coverof a bottom stackable container may be configured to fit into the recessof the bottom of a top stackable container such that the bottom and thetop stackable containers may be interlocked or inter-connected with eachother.

Each stackable container may have transparent sides to allow viewing ofthe contents stored without opening the cover. Each stackable containermay include a transparent cover, and a non-transparent, interchangeablefaceplate. The faceplate may fit over the raised portion of the coverand be firmly and removably affixed to the cover, such as via screws orother fasteners. As a result, both the top side of the faceplate, andthe contents of the container (through the transparent raised portion ofthe cover) may be viewable when looking at the stackable container fromthe top. The containers may be used for storing jewelry or other items.

In one aspect, a series of stackable containers may be provided. Theseries of stackable containers may include a top stackable container anda bottom stackable container having identical shapes. Both the topstackable container and the bottom stackable container may havetransparent sides; a bottom having an inward recess, the inward recesshaving a first surface area; and a cover having a raised area, theraised area being transparent and having a second surface area and aheight of a first length. The second surface area of the raised area ofthe cover of the bottom stackable container may be sized to be acceptedby the first surface area of the inward recess on the bottom of the topstackable container. Once the top stackable container is stacked on topof the bottom stackable container, side surfaces associated with ordefining the second surface area of the raised area of the cover of thebottom stacker container may make one or more interference fits withside surfaces associated with or defining the first surface area of theinward recess on the bottom of the top stackable container such that thetop stackable container is inter-connectively stacked on top of thebottom stackable container.

In another aspect, a stackable container may be provided. The stackablecontainer may include a cover with a double raised area sized to beinserted into a second recess on a second bottom of a second stackablecontainer, the double raised area having a height and the secondstackable container being shaped similarly to the stackable container.The stackable container may include a bottom with a recess sized toaccept at least a portion of a third double raised area on a third coverof a third stackable container, the third stackable container beingshaped similarly to the stackable container. The stackable container mayinclude a faceplate for visual recognition of a type of contents beingstored by the stackable container. The faceplate may be configured toslide over the double raised area of the cover and be removably affixedto the cover of the stackable container. The faceplate may have a secondheight of approximately half the height of the double raised area of thecover such that a top portion of the double raised area of the coverprotrudes from the faceplate after the faceplate is removably affixed tothe cover of the stackable container. During use, the top portion of thedouble raised area of the cover of the stackable container thatprotrudes from the faceplate is slid into the second recess on thesecond bottom of the second stackable container such that secondstackable container is held in place with respect to the stackablecontainer via the inter-connection between the top portion of the doubleraised area of the cover of the stackable container that protrudes fromthe faceplate after the faceplate is removably affixed to the cover ofthe stackable container and the second recess on the second bottom ofthe second stackable container.

In another aspect, a method of selling customizable, stackablecontainers may be provided. The method may include selling a firstcontent of a certain type along with an initial customizable andstackable container that is displaying the first content of the certaintype at a merchant location during a first shopping event. The initialcustomizable and stackable container may be at least partiallytransparent such that the first content of the certain type within theinitial customizable and stackable container may be viewed withoutremoving a cover associated with the initial customizable and stackablecontainer. The initial customizable and stackable container may beconfigured to be accessorized by a first accessory of a certain kind.The method may include subsequently selling a second content of thecertain type along with a second customizable and stackable containerthat is displaying the second content of the certain type at themerchant location during a second shopping event. The secondcustomizable and stackable container may be at least partiallytransparent such that the second content of the certain type within thesecond customizable and stackable container may be viewed withoutremoving a cover associated with the second customizable and stackablecontainer. The second customizable and stackable container may beconfigured to have a substantially identical size and shape as theinitial customizable and stackable container, and be accessorized by asecond accessory of the certain kind. As a result, the secondcustomizable and stackable container may be (1) inter-connectivelystacked with the initial customizable and stackable container, and (2)accessorized in conformity with the first accessory of the certain kindassociated with the initial customizable and stackable container.

The present invention is defined by the following claims. Nothing inthis section should be taken as a limitation on those claims. Furtheraspects and advantages of the invention are discussed below inconjunction with the preferred embodiments and may be later claimedindependently or in combination.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present embodiments will become more fully understood from thedetailed description given herein below and the accompanying drawingswhich are given by way of illustration only, and are not limitative ofthe present invention, and wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary interchangeable, stackable container;

FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary faceplate;

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary cover and case;

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary bottom of an interchangeable, stackablecontainer;

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary faceplate;

FIG. 6A illustrates an exemplary cross-sectional view of a double raisedarea of an exemplary cover without a faceplate;

FIG. 6B illustrates an exemplary cross-sectional view of a double raisedarea of an exemplary cover with a faceplate; and

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary method of use of customizable andinterchangeable stackable containers.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present embodiments relate to a series of customizable andinterchangeable stackable containers and a method of using the same.Each of the stackable containers may have transparent sides and atransparent or partially transparent cover. The cover for each stackablecontainer may have an interchangeable or customizable faceplate. Each ofthe containers may be of the same size and shape, and be configured tobe stacked on top of another container. A series of the stackablecontainers may form a vertical stack of individual containers.

The cover for each stackable container may include a protruding plateauor other raised area. Each container may include a recess, such as areceding plateau, on its bottom surface. The raised area of the cover ofa bottom container may be sized to fit within, mate with, or otherwisebe sized to be matingly accepted by the recess on the bottom surface ofa top container. The surfaces of the protruding raised area of the coverof a bottom stackable container may form one or more interference orotherwise snug fits with surfaces of the recess on the bottom of a topstackable container so that the bottom and top stackable containers maybe firmly inter-connected or interlocked with each other.

The present embodiments may include any stackable design. The containersmay be stacked one on top of another, or side-by-side, or front-to-rear,or back-to-front. Raised areas, receding areas, and other means ofinterconnection may be on the sides of the containers, such as on theleft and right sides, in addition to being on the top and bottomsurfaces. Alternatively, the present embodiments may not include anymeans of direct interconnection between surfaces of adjacent containers.

In one embodiment, the stackable containers may be transparent, orpartially transparent, plastic storage and display boxes. The displayboxes may have rectangular, square, or circular cross-sections. Thedisplay boxes may have removable covers. The covers may have a centraltransparent and raised area. The covers may also have a border area thatmay be recessed with respect to the raised area so that another box maybe stacked on top of the cover of the first box. The border area of thecover may also include a replaceable informative, protective, and/ordecorative faceplate.

Different sizes of display boxes may be supplied, and the boxes may beshaped such that two rectangular boxes may be stacked above or below asquare box, and vice versa. This may provide flexibility as to how theboxes may be stacked and stored. Additionally, the transparent sides andcover center permit viewing of the internal contents of the box withoutopening it, facilitating selection of a desired item being displayed ata merchant location or from storage, either at the merchant location ora customer location/home.

The display boxes may be part of an overall system designed so that theboxes may be used both during retailing, and for storage at a customer'shome. As a result, waste may be reduced, and a more environmentallyfriendly way to package items may be provided. The customer also may nothave to purchase a separate storage box for display, and the transparentsides and/or cover or top may facilitate finding a desired article. Thedisplay boxes may be suited for items such as jewelry, shoes, craft andhobby items, small tools, articles of clothing, and the like.

When used as the original packaging for an item, the box may becustomized or personalized with appropriate border inserts and/or afaceplate on the cover to identify the store, manufacturer, or contents.The borders may be colored to match the store or manufacturer logo.Appropriate text may be supplied on the border, or in an insert insidethe box, as agreed with the provider of the item. Additional labels maybe supplied, for example at the end of a box. By signing up toparticipate in the system, the store or manufacturer may show that theyare adopting re-usable packaging, which is more environmentally friendlythan disposable containers. At the merchant level these containers maybe suitable to replace current packaging for jewelry and technology suchas iphones, ipods, and shoes where current packaging is not conducive toreuse.

The system of the present embodiments may include replacement inserts orfaceplates for the cover borders. The faceplates may be purchased byconsumers to replace the store or manufacturer provided border to matchtheir home decor, or to provide for another purpose, such as forcolor-coding items. Purchase of the faceplates or other inserts may beoptional, and the boxes may be stored with their original logo insertsif desired.

The system may include larger containers into which the stackable boxesmay be inserted to form a customizable system. Empty boxes may be soldsuch that the consumer may transfer one or more items they already ownor items bought from non-participating merchants into the system. Thus,the system may provide flexibility to allow the consumer to build theirown storage system for jewelry or other articles. As their collectiongrows, consumers may simply reconfigure or restack the boxes into anysuitable configuration, either by buying larger outer containers or bystacking the boxes on a shelf or in a drawer. The boxes may easily beremoved for travel, or to gain access to the item, such as an item ofjewelry, inside for wear. The transparency of the boxes may make it easyfor the consumer to locate and access the correct item quickly.

In one embodiment, a customer may purchase a series of individualstackable containers over a period of time. The customer may initiallypurchase one or more of the stackable containers storing a certain typeof article. Subsequently, the customer may purchase an additionalarticle of the same type in a similarly shaped stackable container. Thenewly purchased stackable container containing the new article may bestacked upon the customer's previously purchased stackable containerscontaining articles of the same type, for both storage and easy viewingof the stored contents.

I. Customizable Storage Container System

In one aspect, the present embodiments relate to containers for storingand transporting articles. More specifically, the present embodimentsmay relate to a primarily or partially transparent container which issuitable for storing small items or sets of items such as jewelry andfashion accessories. The present embodiments may be applied to thestorage of other small items such as, but not limited to, crafts, smalltools, small fishing equipment and lures, stamp collections, coincollections, rock and gem collections, and beads. Alternatively, thepresent embodiments may be used for storage of large items.

The present embodiments may provide an improved organization and storagesystem for fine jewelry and fashion accessories. The system may includean enhanced individual container which may house an item or set of finejewelry or fashion accessories, meant to be worn together as a set. Thecontainer, when used in plurality and/or in various sizes, may allow fora much more functional ‘system’ of storing fine jewelry or accessoriesas compared to existing techniques.

The individual containers may be used in various sizes and/or inplurality to create an enhanced jewelry storage system that may then becontained in re-designed stackable trays, jewelry boxes, jewelryarmoires, transportable cases, or other storage systems, or stackedwithin someone's existing furniture, drawer or container. The individualcontainers may be made available in various sizes, stackable,transparent or partially transparent, light-weight, impact-resistant(such as for protection of the jewelry during transport). The individualcontainers may have a secure cover that is sealed in a manner that maynot accidentally open on its own during transport, as the contents maybe valuable and preferably be secured.

The individual containers may be designed to allow certain user-desiredoptions for personalization that may include, but is not limited to: theability to attach an informative, protective, or decorative plate to thetop and/or bottom of the container and still retain the stackabilityfeature; the ability to insert removable dividers, stabilizers,cushions, or other container-specific inserts or dividers such asanti-tarnish material, and/or inserts that may allow for the use ofwireless, digital or other automated technology in connection withinventory, security, or other needs. Other options for personalizationand/or faceplates may optionally be used.

The organizational features of the present embodiments may include astackable design on like, closed containers. The container body,configured to hold content, may nest into another open container body oflike size. A body of the container may nest on top of an upside downcover when open, if constructed with a completely removable cover. Thecontainers may be inter-connective.

In one embodiment, a container cover may be completely removable from acontainer body. The container cover may have a secure closure to thecontainer body in order to protect contents from accidentally dislodgingfrom the container body. The container cover may be constructed to closein various ways including, but not limited to: snap closure, slidingclosure, hinge and snap, hinge and lock, and other fasteners.

The container body and cover may be made out of plastic or variousplastics combined together. The containers may be used in plurality toorganize items. Each container may include a non-digital label (writtenor typed) for identifying a stored item for the item's properreplacement to a correct container after use.

The container may include a handle or attachable wheels. The containermay include ‘feet’ that would allow the container to rest on its side.The container may be shaped as a square, rectangle, oval, circular,cylindrical or other traditional or non-traditional, recognizable ornon-recognizable shape.

The container cover and/or container bottom may have ability to attach aremovable faceplate perimeter or casing made from rigid or flexiblematerial such as, but not limited to, plastic, wood, metal, fabric orany other material suitable for faceplate purposes. The container coverand/or container bottom may retain its stackabilty feature whether ornot the removable faceplate perimeter or casing is attached. Thecontainer body is preferably made of transparent or translucentmaterial, and may be completely solid or solid in part.

The container cover may be manufactured from transparent material formaximum or partial visibility of stored contents. The container covermay be translucent or solid around the perimeter of the cover.

The container may include a number of organizational tools, such asdividers or hooks. For instance, the container may include removableinserts or dividers that may allow a user to maximize container space byseparating items. The container may include removable inserts tostabilize items which may be stored within the container by reducingspace or to decrease the likelihood of the item's entanglement withitself or other items. The container may reserve a defined area toaffix, attach or insert a keepsake or other note that pertains to theitem stored in the container. The organizing tools may alternatively oradditionally include hooks to hang necklaces, affix earrings to, and tohold rings, watches and bracelets.

II. Durability and Content-Protective Features

The container may include durability and content-protective features.The container cover may connect to the bottom of another container invarious ways that afford the contents of the container to be secure whenthe container is turned on its side or upside down. The container andcover may be scratch resistant, anti-scratch, or scratchproof, as wellas impact resistant. The container and cover may offer ultra-violet (UV)protection, and may be heat resistant and dishwasher safe.

The container and cover may be constructed with food-grade material. Thecontainer and cover seal may have an airtight seal design(airtight=tarnish resistance). The container and cover may beconstructed from water-resistant material, such as plastic, and may havea waterproof seal design. The container may be constructed to containliquids and/or to be re-usable. The container may include a removableanti-tarnish tab, strip, material, or fabric.

III. Security and Inventory Features

The container may include one or more locking mechanisms. The containermay be tamper evident when the cover is in place and appropriatelyclosed onto the container body. Tamper evidence may be the result ofhinged locking mechanisms being moved to the ‘open’ position or alocking member position change.

Magnets, neodymium or super magnets may be used to assist in closure ofthe container. Super magnets may be spaced around a perimeter of acover. A corresponding spacing of super magnets may be placed along atop ridge of a case, such that super magnets hold the cover in place andover the top of the base of the container. Magnets or super magnets mayalso be used to hold the faceplates onto the covers, or instead of or inconjunction with the fasteners described herein.

The container may incorporate bar code or a technology device, such as awireless remote receiver or transmitter. The container may include atechnology component designed to be used in conjunction with aninventory security software program, security system, wireless remotetechnology, or other computer-based technology. The container may besuited to interact with wireless technology. The container may includeother security devices, such as processing units or receivers, to beused with higher technology security, camera, and digital storagesoftware. The container may include a battery and electronic devices totransmit information.

Each container and/or faceplate may include a Universal Product Code(UPC) bar code tag, label, identifier or other related UPC, source codeor global source code feature. Each container and/or faceplate mayinclude a radio frequency tag, label, chip, coil, transmitter, receiveror other radio frequency related feature. For instance, each containerand/or faceplate may include (1) a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)or “Smart Labels” tag, label, chip, coil, transmitter, receiver or otherRFID-related feature; (2) an electromagnetic (EM) tag, strip, chip,coil, transmitter, receiver or other EM-related feature; (3) anacousto-magnetic tag, strip, chip, coil, transmitter, receiver or otheracousto-magnetic related feature; and/or (4) a power source such as abattery or other power source, including energy-harvesting devices. Thetechnology components may be ‘built’ into the construction of thecontainer so as to avoid tampering or the ability to remove components.In one embodiment, the technology components may be read-only and/orreprogrammable.

IV. Multi-Container System for Storage

The container may be designed to be used with a plurality of othercontainers and stored in a portable and larger container with a handle.The container may be stored in stackable and/or nestable trays,armoires, furniture, pouches or other containers specifically designedfor multiple container units. The container may be stored in largerstorage containers or furniture such as jewelry armoires, drawers orother containers that are not necessarily designed for the container.The container may be stored in a container that requires power operationwhere individual containers may or may not draw on power supplieddirectly or indirectly by the larger container. The container mayinclude a label for wireless and/or digital identification of one ormore items stored in the container. In one aspect, the larger storagecontainers and/or other housing units for housing the stackablecontainers may be part of the multi-container system for storage of thepresent embodiments.

V. Accessories

The system may include a number of accessories to be used with thecontainers. Accessories may include: (1) keepsake note cards; (2) foampadding, or memory foam; (3) anti-tarnish material or (LusterLoc®); (4)decorative plates for container bottom or container cover; (5) inventorysystem—technology-based or manual label and ledger; (6) pouches, bags,or containers—to insert into the individual containers for travel,mobility and/or gifting; (6.5) pouches, bags or containers for packingone or multiple containers for travel, mobility or gifting; (7)organizer for un-used containers and accessories; (8) divider inserts—somultiple items may be stored in one container, but separated; (9)anti-tangle clips, stays, or inserts that may prevent chains fromtangling; (10) stackable, nestable trays with adjustable dividers(slats) that may hold the containers in rows; (11) magnets that may beapplied to containers; (12) anti-slip material that may be applied tothe bottom of each container; (13) theft deterrent systems or locksystems for the larger storage containers that may hold the smallercontainers; (14) inventory software; and (15) jewelry boxes, cases,armoires, and furniture or other organizers specifically designed towork with the system of containers described herein.

Generally, the present embodiments may be used for a variety ofapplications. Exemplary applications may include jewelry organization,craft organization, small items organization, small hardware storage,fishing hardware storage, stamp collection storage, coin collectionstorage, and money (bills) collection storage. The present embodimentsmay also be used with a variety of container holders, including jewelryarmoires; flanging shelf systems; over-the-door holders or displaycases; lazy-susan display cases; spice rack storage systems; jewelryboxes; jewelry armoires (furniture) to utilize containers; and travelpouches.

The present embodiments may be provided as a package or kit. Anexemplary package may include divider inserts, a necklace logo piececoncept, sample decorative faceplates, label inserts for numberinginventory, foam or padding inserts to take up space, containers ofvarious sizes, keepsake notes, and anti-tarnish strips or tabs ofmaterial.

VI. Customizable Container/Removable Faceplate for Content Recognition

In another aspect, the present embodiments may relate to containers forstoring items and concerns a removable protective and/or informativefaceplate; casing; housing; cover; skin or other removable element thatmay not interfere with the general utility of container. The presentembodiments may provide the ability to customize or personalize thecontainer with the removable or interchangeable faceplate protective orinformative attachment such that a user is able to customize theexterior of the storage containers to his or her desired preference(s).

Customizing or personalizing storage containers may serve functional,informative, and/or recognitive aspects. For example, a consumer maywish to color-code certain stored items in order to distinguish aparticular stored item from another. With conventional containers, whenlooking for a stored item, a user may reach for one box amongst a stackof like boxes only to learn it does not contain the desired contents.Therefore, the ability to distinguish contents of containers by thecontainer itself may be useful, and the present embodiments may providea system having the ability to change the look of storage boxes orcontainers in order to aid in identifying a particular item from otheritems.

The system of containers may be used to organize a variety of itemsacross the house: for example the container may house shoe sets inclosets; pens in the office; makeup in the bathroom; flashlights in thelaundry room; batteries in the office; and tools in the garage. Thesystem of containers maybe used to organize a variety of items acrossbusiness; for example, files, office supplies and inventories. Thesystem of containers may be used to organized a variety of items acrossthe medical industry: for example pharmaceutics, medical devices,medical storage. The system of containers may be used to organize avariety of items across the technology industry: for example iPads,iPods, DVDs, earphones, cords, and accessories. The system may colorcode: shoes that are stored; craft boxes; store beads; children shoecontainers for their respective rooms, and so on. The system may upgradethe look of a plastic storage container so that it coordinates with aroom decor, i.e., a faceplate or insert may be manufactured and thenused with other containers that already exist.

The faceplate or other attachment or skin may be interchangeably usedwith other, already existing storage containers. The faceplates may havesports, holiday, movie, character, and other themes. The faceplates maybe color-coded, such as a blue-box series for one type of content ormatching set and a red-box series for another type of content ormatching set.

VII. Exemplary Embodiments

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary interchangeable, stackable container100. The stackable container 100 may include a case 102 and a cover 104.The case may include four sides 108 and a bottom 110. The bottom 110 mayinclude a recess 112 or raised area into the body of the case 102. Thecover 104 may include a raised area 106 and a border area 114surrounding the raised area 106. The stackable container 100 may includeadditional, fewer, or alternate components.

The raised area 106 of the cover 104 may have a first surface area and afirst height or depth 116. The recess 112 of the bottom of the case 102may have a second surface area and a second height or depth 118. Thefirst surface area and first depth 116 of the raised area 106 of thecover 104 may be sized to fit within the second surface area and secondheight or depth 118 of the recess 112 of the bottom 110 of a similarlysized stackable container. In one aspect, the first height 116 of theraised area 106 may be approximately twice the size of the second height118 of the recess 112—to accommodate the stacking of a faceplate ontothe raised area 106 prior to stacking one container on top of another(as described elsewhere herein).

In one embodiment, the surfaces of, associated with, defining, and/orextending into or from the raised area 106 may form one or moreinterference fits with corresponding surfaces of, associated with,defining, and/or extending into or from the recess 112 of the bottom ofanother stackable container. Snug fits between the adjoining surfacesmay facilitate a firm inter-connection between a top container and abottom container during use. Fasteners may also be used to facilitateinter-connection between containers.

Alternatively, the surfaces of, associated with, defining, and/orextending into or from the raised area 106 may make clearance fits withone or more surfaces of, associated with, defining, and/or extendinginto or from the recess 112 of the bottom of another stackablecontainer. For instance, the top and bottom containers may be heldtogether via snaps, screws, or other fasteners associated with either orboth the raised area 106 and the recess 112.

The border area 114 of the cover 104 may be configured to accept aninterchangeable faceplate that may include an interior opening sized tofit over the surface area of the raised area 106. The cover 104 and/orthe raised area 106 may be transparent such that the contents of thecase 102 may be viewed from above through the raised area 106 after thenon-transparent faceplate is removably affixed to the cover 104. Thesides 108 of the case 102 and the bottom 110 of the case 102 may also betransparent to facilitate viewing of the contents of the case 102without opening the cover 104.

FIG. 2 is a top view of an exemplary faceplate 200. The faceplate 200may have an outer dimension 204 sized to substantially extend to theouter edges of the cover. The faceplate 200 may include a solid portion202 for covering an outer area of the cover with a means for visualrecognition by a viewer, such as via information or color-coding. Thefaceplate 200 may have an interior 208 having an inner dimension 206sized to fit over or snap onto the raised area of the cover. The raisedarea of the cover and/or the inner dimension 206 of the faceplate 200may have one or more fasteners 212. The fasteners 212 may be snaps,screws, tabs, or other fasteners that firmly, removably affix thefaceplate 200 to the cover. The faceplate 200 may include additional,fewer, or alternate components.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary cover and case pair 300. The pair 300may include a cover 302 and a case 304. The cover 302 may include araised area 306, a border area 308, a thumb tab 210, an external ridge312, and tabs 314. The case may include sides 316, a top ridge 318, andindentations 320. The pair 300 may include additional, fewer, oralternate components.

The cover 302 may include a thumb tab 310 for facilitating opening andclosing of the cover 302. The external ridge 312 of the cover 302 mayinclude tabs 314 or other fasteners. The top ridge 318 of the case 304may include indentations 320 or other fasteners. The tabs 314 may beconfigured to snap into or over the indentations 320 on the case 304such that tabs 314 and indentations 320 facilitate firmly and removablyaffixing the cover 302 to the case 304. In one embodiment, the cover 302may form an airtight connection with the case 304.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary bottom 400 of a interchangeable,stackable container. The bottom 400 may include a recess or inwardlyraised area 402. The recess 402 may have a square or rectangular outersurface area 404. The size of the surface area 404 of the recess 402 maybe configured to accept a corresponding surface of a raised area of thecover of another container during use. The recess 402 and raised area ofa cover may have alternative corresponding surface shapes, such ascircular or oval. The bottom 400 may include additional, fewer, oralternate components.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary faceplate 500. Thefaceplate 500 may include a top surface 502 and an interior portion 504.The top surface 502 may be color coded or have other designs tofacilitate recognition of a type of contents that the associatedcontainer contains. The interior portion 504 may be sized to be fit overa raised portion on a cover of the container.

The faceplate 500 may include fasteners 510 on a side 508 defining inpart the interior portion 502. The surfaces of the sides 508 may makeinterference or clearance fits with corresponding surfaces of sidesdefining a raised area on a cover of the container.

The fasteners 510 may include tabs, indentations, snaps, screws,grooves, or other fasteners. The fasteners 510 may be configured to workin unison with surfaces on the exterior of one or more surfaces on theraised area of a cover. The fasteners 510 may be configured such thatthe faceplate 500 may snap onto the raised area of a cover and be heldin place. The faceplate 500 may have a faceplate height 506 that is lessthan a height of the raised area of a cover of the container such thatat least a portion of the raised area protrudes from the faceplate 500for acceptance by a recess on the bottom of another container.

FIG. 6A illustrates an exemplary cross-sectional view of an exemplarycover 600 without a faceplate. The cover 600 may include a substantiallyflat lid portion 604 and a raised area 606. The raised area 606 may havea height 608 of a first size and a surface area 610 of a first area.

FIG. 6B illustrates an exemplary cross-sectional view of an exemplarycover 600 with a faceplate 616. The faceplate 616 may have a faceplateheight that is approximately half the height of the raised area 606. Inother words, the raised area 606 may have a height that is approximatelytwice the height or thickness of the faceplate 616. As a result, theraised area 606 may be characterized as a “double raised area.”

As shown, after the faceplate 616 is removable affixed to the cover 600,a top portion of the raised area 606 protrudes from the faceplate 616.The top portion of the raised area 606 that protrudes from the faceplate616 may configured to fit in within the recess area of a bottom ofanother container to facilitate inter-connecting the containers togetherduring use.

VIII. Exemplary Method

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary method of selling customizable andinterchangeable, stackable containers 700. The method may includeselling a first content of a certain type along with an initialcustomizable and stackable container that is displaying the firstcontent of the certain type at a merchant location during a firstshopping event 702; selling one or more accessories to accessorize theinitial stackable container 704; subsequently selling a second contentof the certain type along with a second customizable and stackablecontainer that is displaying the second content of the certain type atthe merchant location during a second shopping event 706; subsequentlyselling one or more similar accessories to accessorize the secondstackable container 708; and subsequently selling another type ofaccessory to accessorize both the initial and second stackablecontainers in a like manner that is different from the original mannerof accessorizing 710. The method may include additional, fewer, oralternate actions.

The method 700 may include selling a first content of a certain typealong with an initial customizable and stackable container that isdisplaying the first content of the certain type at a merchant locationduring a first shopping event 702. The initial customizable andstackable container may be at least partially transparent such that thefirst content of the certain type within the initial customizable andstackable container may be viewed without removing a cover associatedwith the initial customizable and stackable container. The initialcustomizable and stackable container may be configured to beaccessorized by a first accessory of a certain kind, such as thefaceplates and inserts discussed herein.

The initial stackable containers sold may include those describedherein. The initial stackable containers may include transparent sidesand/or a partially transparent cover. The initial stackable container(s)may be intended for home use, such that the customer does not discard orthrow away an initial jewelry or other store display box that may housecontents such as technology, shoes and other items. Thus, the method 700may reduce waste by providing a method of using the same container forboth selling the contents of the container, as well for home storage ofthe container and home display of the contents purchased. Alternativelythe consumer may transfer one or more items they already own or itemsbought from non-participating merchants into the container.

The method 700 may include selling one or more accessories toaccessorize the one or more initial stackable containers 704. A numberof faceplates, covers, inserts, dividers, and other accessories may besold for home-use of the stackable containers 704. The accessories maybe used to customize the stackable containers to the preferences of theuser, such as by color or theme. The method may include sellingadditional empty containers to facilitate transfer and storage of itemsalready owned by a consumer or items purchased at non-participatingmerchants.

The method 700 may include subsequently selling a second content of thecertain type along with a second customizable and stackable containerthat is displaying the second content of the certain type at themerchant location during a second shopping event 706. The secondcustomizable and stackable container may be at least partiallytransparent such that the second content of the certain type within thesecond customizable and stackable container may be viewed withoutremoving a cover associated with the second customizable and stackablecontainer.

The second container may be identical or substantially identical to theoriginal container(s) sold. As a result, the user may employ thesubsequently bought associated container as part of a customizablesystem intended for home use. Similar to the original containers, thesecondary containers may be transparent or partially transparent and besuitable for both store display and home use, such that waste (such asdiscarding unwanted containers at home after purchase) may bealleviated.

In one embodiment, the second customizable and stackable container maybe configured to have a substantially identical size and shape as theinitial customizable and stackable container, and be accessorized by asecond accessory of the certain kind such that the second customizableand stackable container may be (1) inter-connectively ornon-interconnectively stacked with the initial customizable andstackable container, and (2) accessorized in conformity with the firstaccessory of the certain kind associated with the initial customizableand stackable container.

In another embodiment, the containers may not be stackable, but afaceplate may be provided that allows for stackability. Faceplates mayconvert non-stackable containers into a set of stackable containers.Faceplates may be attached to the top, bottom, left, right, front,and/or back of the containers. Corresponding faceplates may be attachedto adjacent containers. A corresponding set of faceplates, i.e., afaceplate on the left side of a first container, and a faceplate on theright side of a second container, may be configured to be interconnectedwith each other, such as via raised areas, receding areas, snap-onmeans, or other surfaces for interconnection.

The method 700 may include subsequently selling one or more similaraccessories to accessorize the second stackable container 708. Themethod may include selling the second accessory of the certain kindduring the second or a subsequent shopping event to accessorize thesecond customizable and stackable container in conformity with the firstaccessory of the certain kind. The initial and second customizable andstackable containers may facilitate display of the first and secondcontent of the certain type, and visual recognition of the certain typeof content that is being stored by each customizable and stackablecontainer may be facilitated via the corresponding first and secondaccessories of the certain kind.

In other words, the method of selling stackable containers may beuser-customized to make new containers uniform with pre-existingcontainers of the same size at the user's location. The user may stackat home a store bought container for use with other containers, andinterchange one or more faceplates at home to match with othercontainers.

In one embodiment, the certain type of content sold may be jewelry, andthe method may further comprise selling dividers for dividing pieces ofjewelry within each customizable and stackable container. In anotherembodiment, the certain kind of accessory may be a faceplate configuredto be removably affixed to the cover of an individual customizable andstackable container. In another embodiment, the customizable andstackable containers may be generally cubical in shape, with either fouror six (including top and bottom) sides each sized to be approximatelyequal to or less than 4.0 inches in length, preferably approximatelyequal to or less than 2.0 inches in length. Other sized containers maybe used for jewelry storage purposes. Additionally, containers used forother purposes may have larger and/or smaller sizes.

The method 700 may include subsequently selling another type ofaccessory to accessorize both the initial stackable container(s) and thesubsequently sold stackable container(s) in a new and different manner710. As the system of a user grows, they may wish to visually identifycertain types of articles or matching articles via color, such as greenfor matching earrings, rings, and bracelets, and red for a second set oflike matching articles. Once the user collects enough items, it may beuseful to color code matching sets with new and different faceplates orinserts, or color code the same type of content with new and differentfaceplates or inserts.

The method 700 may include manufacturing, selling, or using stackable ornon-stackable containers. The containers may be fully or partiallytransparent. For instance, preferably a minimum of one side, or a cover,or a bottom may be transparent. Combinations of transparent sides andcovers may be used. Additional, fewer, or alternative transparentsurfaces may be used.

The method 700 may include various types of faceplates. Preferably, whena faceplate is attached to a container, the faceplate may not hinderstackability. Further, the faceplate itself may be transparent orpartially transparent to alleviate hindering the transparency of thecontainer.

The method 700 may include various forms of packaging. The method 700may include using re-closable, re-usable, non-disposable, and/orrecyclable containers, faceplates, and other components. The presentembodiments may be offered for sale as products in re-closable and/orre-usable packaging. Alternatively or additionally, disposable packagingmay be used for transporting and selling the component parts of thepresent embodiments.

Preferably, the containers may be stackable and/or interlocking.However, the containers may be non-stackable and/or non-interlocking.For instance, the containers may be non-stackable, re-usable, andpartially-transparent.

The method 700 may include stacking the containers one on top ofanother. Alternatively, the method 700 may include stacking thecontainers side-by-side, left-to-right, or back-to-front. The method 700may include stacking the containers within one or more largercontainers, dressers, drawings, or other containers. Other manners ofstacking may be used.

The method 700 may include containers that lend themselves to re-use,re-cycling, and re-closing satisfactorily during use. For instance,current polycarbonate containers for small electronic devices or playersmay not be re-usable and may be sold with wasteful packaging. On theother hand, the present embodiments may include containers that mayconveniently and effectively store small electronic devices, players,cameras, cell phones, components, and accessories.

The containers may each include a wireless transceiver attached to orembedded within the walls of each container. The wireless transceivermay be used for location tracking for both in-store and at-home use. Thecontainers may be customizable and may be made stackable via a faceplateor other accessorizing attachment, including faceplates or attachmentswith processors, transceivers, or other wireless communication devicesfor communicating to a remote controller or system.

The customizable and stackable containers may contain a re-programmableelectronic device attached to or embedded within walls of eachcustomizable and stackable container. For instance, a processor with are-programmable memory may be attached to each container. The processormay include a transmitter, a receiver, a transceiver, or other means ofwireless communication. The processor may include a power supply such asa battery, solar panel, a MEMS (Microelectromechanical system) device,or an energy-harvestor that harvests environmental energy to power theprocessor. Alternatively or additionally, the containers may include aRFID (radio frequency identification) device or a processor withembedded memory or read-only memory. The containers may includeprocessors or electronic devices with additional, fewer, or alternatecomponents.

The processor may be configured to communicate with a remotely locatedcontroller (such as a remotely located controller associated with amerchant, manufacturer, or supplier) via wireless communication. Thewireless communication may permit remote and automatic inventorytracking of the containers and/or their contents. Alternatively, thecontainers may include RFID devices or other tags that may be wanded byhand for manual data entry into a central system for inventory and/orcontainer tracking, and generation of inventory reports.

In one aspect, a customer may return a container to a store sometimeafter original purchase. The processor or tag associated with thecontainer may be used by a computer system associated with the store totrack the container and/or automatically identify that the container hasbeen returned. After which, the processor and/or tag may be reprogrammedfor various purposes. For instance, the processor may be reprogrammed toinclude a new identification number. Upon resale, the processor may bereprogrammed with a new customer identifier associated with thedifferent consumer that purchases new contents sold within thecontainer. Additionally, the processor may be re-programmed with dataidentifying the new contents sold. The processor may be re-programmedwith additional, fewer, or different types of data and/or instructions.

While several arrangements of the invention have been described, it willbe understood that it is capable of still further modifications and thisapplication is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations ofthe invention, following in general the principles of the invention andincluding such departures from the present disclosure as to come withinknowledge or customary practice in the art to which the inventionpertains, and as may be applied to the essential features hereinbeforeset forth and falling within the scope of the invention or the limits ofthe appended claims. It should be understood that many changes andmodifications may be made without departing from the scope of theinvention. The description and illustrations are by way of example only.Many more embodiments and implementations are possible within the scopeof this invention and will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in theart. The various embodiments are not limited to the describedenvironments and have a wide variety of applications.

It is intended in the appended claims to cover all such changes andmodifications which fall within the true spirit and scope of theinvention. Therefore, the invention is not limited to the specificdetails, representative embodiments, and illustrated examples in thisdescription. Accordingly, the invention is not to be restricted exceptin light as necessitated by the accompanying claims and theirequivalents.

1. A series of stackable containers, the series of stackable containerscomprising: a top stackable container and a bottom stackable containerhaving identical shapes, both the top stackable container and the bottomstackable container having: transparent sides; a bottom having an inwardrecess, the inward recess having a first surface area; and a coverhaving a raised area, the raised area being transparent and having asecond surface area and a height of a first length, wherein the secondsurface area of the raised area of the cover of the bottom stackablecontainer is sized to be accepted by the first surface area of theinward recess on the bottom of the top stackable container, and once thetop stackable container is stacked on top of the bottom stackablecontainer, side surfaces associated with or defining the second surfacearea of the raised area of the cover of the bottom stacker containermake one or more interference fits with side surfaces associated with ordefining the first surface area of the inward recess on the bottom ofthe top stackable container such that the top stackable container isinter-connectively stacked on top of the bottom stackable container. 2.The series of stackable containers of claim 1, wherein the cover of thetop stackable container includes a faceplate configured to cover anouter portion of the cover, the faceplate having a cut-out interiorsized to fit around the second surface area of the raised area of thecover such that the contents of each stackable container is viewablethrough the raised area of the cover.
 3. The series of stackablecontainers of claim 2, wherein the faceplate is configured to have asecond height of a second length, the second length of the second heightof the faceplate being less than the first length of the height of theraised area such that after the faceplate is slid over the secondsurface area of the raised area of the cover of the bottom stackablecontainer, at least a portion of the raised area of the cover of thebottom stackable container protrudes from the faceplate for acceptanceby the inward recess on the bottom of the top stackable container tofacilitate inter-connectively stacking the top and bottom stackablecontainers together.
 4. The series of stackable containers of claim 3,wherein the faceplate is attachable to and removable from the cover ofthe top stackable container, the faceplate having a user-selected color.5. The series of stackable containers of claim 4, wherein both the topstackable container and the bottom stackable container have: a generallyrectangular or square shape; four transparent sides; and a transparentbottom.
 6. The series of stackable containers of claim 5, wherein eachof the four transparent sides is approximately equal to or less than 4.0inches in dimension.
 7. The series of stackable containers of claim 6,wherein the top stackable container is configured to have an internalmeans for organizing jewelry.
 8. A stackable container, the stackablecontainer comprising: a cover with a double raised area sized to beinserted into a second recess on a second bottom of a second stackablecontainer, the double raised area having a height, the second stackablecontainer being shaped similarly to the stackable container; a bottomwith a recess sized to accept at least a portion of a third doubleraised area on a third cover of a third stackable container, the thirdstackable container being shaped similarly to the stackable container;and a faceplate for visual recognition of a type of contents beingstored by the stackable container, the faceplate being configured toslide over the double raised area of the cover and be removably affixedto the cover, the faceplate having a second height of approximately halfthe height of the double raised area of the cover of the stackablecontainer such that a top portion of the double raised area of the coverprotrudes from the faceplate after the faceplate is removably affixed tothe cover of the stackable container, wherein, during use, the topportion of the double raised area of the cover of the stackablecontainer that protrudes from the faceplate is slid into the secondrecess on the second bottom on the second stackable container such thatsecond stackable container is held in place with respect to thestackable container via the inter-connection between the top portion ofthe double raised area of the cover of the stackable container thatprotrudes from the faceplate after the faceplate is removably affixed tothe cover of the stackable container and the second recess on the secondbottom of the second stackable container.
 9. The stackable container ofclaim 8, wherein surfaces associated with or defining the double raisedarea of the cover of the stackable container and corresponding surfacesassociated with or defining the second recess on the bottom of thesecond stackable container form one or more interference fits.
 10. Thestackable container of claim 9, wherein the surfaces associated with ordefining the double raised of the cover of the stackable container andcorresponding surfaces on the faceplate form one or more interferencefits, the faceplate further being removably affixed to the cover via oneor more fasteners.
 11. The stackable container of claim 8, wherein therecess on the bottom of the stackable container fits over the thirddouble raised area on the third cover of the third stackable containersuch that stackable container is held in place on top of the thirdstackable container via one or more interference fits between surfacesassociated with or defining the recess on the bottom of the stackablecontainer and corresponding surfaces associated with or defining thethird double raised area on the third cover of the third stackablecontainer, so that the stackable container is vertically stacked withrespect to both the second and third stackable containers.
 12. Thestackable container of claim 8, wherein the double raised area of thecover of the stackable container is transparent such that after thefaceplate is removably attached, the contents of the stackable containerremain viewable through the transparent double raised area of the cover.13. The stackable container of claim 11, wherein the stackable containeris configured to have an organizing tool for jewelry and a velvetinterior, and further configured to have a bottom with an outer surfacearea of approximately 2.0 inches by approximately 2.0 inches.
 14. Amethod of selling customizable, stackable containers, the methodcomprising: selling a first content of a certain type along with aninitial customizable and stackable container that is displaying thefirst content of the certain type at a merchant location during a firstshopping event, the initial customizable and stackable container beingat least partially transparent such that the first content of thecertain type within the initial customizable and stackable container maybe viewed without removing a cover associated with the initialcustomizable and stackable container, the initial customizable andstackable container being configured to be accessorized by a firstaccessory of a certain kind; and subsequently selling a second contentof the certain type along with a second customizable and stackablecontainer that is displaying the second content of the certain type atthe merchant location during a second shopping event, the secondcustomizable and stackable container being at least partiallytransparent such that the second content of the certain type within thesecond customizable and stackable container may be viewed withoutremoving a cover associated with the second customizable and stackablecontainer, wherein the second customizable and stackable container isconfigured to have a substantially identical size and shape as theinitial customizable and stackable container, and be accessorized by asecond accessory of the certain kind such that the second the secondcustomizable and stackable container can be (1) inter-connectivelystacked with the initial customizable and stackable container, and (2)accessorized in conformity with the first accessory of the certain kindassociated with the initial customizable and stackable container. 15.The method of selling customizable, stackable containers of claim 14,the method further comprising selling the second accessory of thecertain kind during the second or subsequent shopping event toaccessorize the second customizable and stackable container inconformity with the first accessory of the certain kind, such that theinitial and second customizable and stackable containers facilitatedisplay of the first and second content of the certain type, and visualrecognition of the certain type of content being stored by eachcustomizable and stackable container via the corresponding first andsecond accessory of the certain kind.
 16. The method of sellingcustomizable stackable containers of claim 14, wherein the certain typeof content is jewelry, the method further comprising selling dividersfor dividing pieces of jewelry within each customizable and stackablecontainer.
 17. The method of selling customizable stackable containersof claim 14, wherein the certain kind of accessory is a faceplateconfigured to be removably affixed to the cover of an individualcustomizable and stackable container.
 18. The method of sellingcustomizable stackable containers of claim 14, wherein the initialcustomizable and stackable container includes a case and a cover bothhaving a generally cylindrical shape.
 19. The method of sellingcustomizable stackable containers of claim 14, wherein the initialcustomizable and stackable container contains a re-programmableelectronic device attached to or embedded within walls of the initialcustomizable and stackable container.
 20. The method of sellingcustomizable stackable containers of claim 14, the method furthercomprising remotely tracking a location of the initial customizable andstackable container via a wireless transceiver or other electroniccommunication device attached to or embedded within walls of the initialcustomizable and stackable container.